Veterans Canteen Service

Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is a vital component of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), established in 1946 to provide comfort, health, and well-being to America's Veterans, their families, caregivers, and VA employees.

With over 200 locations nationwide, VCS operates retail stores, cafés, and coffee shops within VA medical centers, creating spaces where Veterans can connect, relax, and care for themselves.

Services and Products

VCS offers a diverse range of services and products tailored to meet the unique needs of the Veteran community:

• Patriot Stores: Located within VA medical centers, these stores provide essential items such as clothing, gifts, and food. Many locations have expanded to include staple groceries, allowing customers to order in advance for in-person pickup.
• Patriot Café: This in-house service offers freshly prepared meals, including healthy options, to Veterans and VA employees. Some locations also provide catering services for special events.
• PatriotStoreDirect: An online shopping platform offering a variety of products, including tires, prescription contact lenses, jewelry, and floral arrangements. These items are available exclusively to Veterans, their families, caregivers, and VA employees.
• Tickets and Travel: VCS partners with MemberDeals to offer discounted tickets and travel options, including entertainment, lodging, and travel services, to Veterans and VA employees.
• Choose Veggies Campaign: Aligned with the VA's Whole Health initiative, this campaign encourages healthier eating habits by promoting vegetable options in VCS cafés nationwide.

Commitment to Whole Health

VCS is committed to supporting the Whole Health of Veterans, focusing on every aspect of their well-being—body, mind, emotion, and spirit.

Through its various services and initiatives, VCS strives to enhance the quality of life for those who have served the nation.

Locations

In addition to its national presence, VCS operates in several locations, including:

• East Orange, NJ
• New Orleans, LA
• Albany, NY
• Salt Lake City, UT